Antonio Padula, Kirkland Piano Teacher, Shares How Your iPad Can Help Teach Your Child to Play the Piano

Does your child exhibit musical ability? Do you have access to an iPad? If the answer to both of these questions is “yes,” then you should have what you need to begin training the next Mozart.

The iPad has the potential to revolutionize the way children are taught to play the piano. More and more apps are being added to the App Store that are designed to help children of all ages learn how to read musical scores and find the notes on a virtual keyboard.

Granted, playing on a virtual keyboard is not the same as playing an actual keyboard. The virtual keyboard does not have the same feel as a real keyboard, nor is it the same size. Virtual keyboards on the iPad are generally limited to one octave or just slightly more. But for children just starting to learn to read music and play the piano, these apps can enhance their ability to learn and to play.

Perhaps the biggest benefit of using the iPad to teach children is that it is enjoyable. Typically, it will take much less effort to encourage children to practice on the iPad than on a real piano. In fact, they may choose of their own volition to open and use the apps. While learning on the iPad does not eliminate the need to practice on an actual piano, it does provide a useful alternative. This has the potential to eliminate much of the frustration that often builds between parents and children over the issue of practicing.

Visit the App Store, browse some of the relevant apps, and read the reviews by users. See what music teaching apps are available. When you find apps that seem to meet your need, download them and give them a try. This does not need to cost you an arm and a leg; there are plenty of free apps or free trial versions available. With thousands of new apps being added every week—many of which are designed to teach children to read and play music—you are sure to find some that will entice, entertain, and train your child.

About Antonio Padula (Kirkland): Antonio Padula is the founder and main teacher of a small studio, a musical education program for children and adolescents. In the studio’s ten years of operation, Tony Padula has become a staple of the arts. He is praised for his combination of patience and drive, encouraging young people to pursue their dreams through hard work and passion.

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Emily Brantly is a freelance writer and blogger who is passionate about music, movies and books. She enjoys writing reviews and covering stories related to the entertainment industry. Email: [email protected]